The Journey

After 14 years of marriage

2011-07-09T16:49:00.000-05:00

1. Marriage isn't about marrying the right person, but doing the right thing.
2. Areli can't complete me, only Christ can complete me.
3. Marriage isn't about feelings but building a life together.
4. There aren't soulmmates in life. My wife is my soulmmate!
5. Marriage will make you or break you in life.
6. You marry her family.
7. The purpose of marriage is ONENESS - God either sees both of us or He sees neither one of us.
8. As long as I consider divorce as an option, Areli and I won't make it.
9. We've made a commitment to NEVER use the word Divorce in our marriage, no matter what!
10. Marriage is a covenant - not a contract!
11. I will have an affair with Areli, constantly :-)
12. The best gift I can give to Sarai, Rebecca & Josue is a healthy marriage.
13. Having God #1, Areli #2 and Kids #3 - doesn't mean I'm negleting my children.
14. I'm committed to fall in love with Areli over and over again!
15. I want to grow old with Areli
16. Calling and ministry are a lot easier to carry and fulfill when Areli is your wife!
17. At age 38, nothing compares in life to wake up besides Areli every morning!
18. I treat Areli the way I pray Josue will treat his wife, one day.
19. Areli allows me to treat her the way Sarai & Becky will, one DISTANT day, allow their husbands to treat them.
20. If I can do it all over again, I will choose Areli every time.

¿Qué hacer en momentos tan caóticos?

2011-04-11T12:09:00.001-05:00

Lejos estoy de saber lo que es sufrimiento, nunca podre compararme con lo que mis hermanos viven diariamente en mi país natal, mi hermoso México. Desde llamadas por teléfono, correos electrónicos, contacto personal y conversaciones ocacionales; no puedo negar que mi corazón se encuentra debastado con todo lo que soy informado de lo que sucede momento a momento en la vida de millones de personas através del crimen organizado.

Decir que nuestra generación cambia rápidamente y a un paso sumamente acelerado es como si nos sorprendieramos que el precio de la gasolina aumenta en cuestión de horas, no creo que haya alguien que niege esta realidad. A la misma vez, en momentos como estos la tendencia de toda persona es enfocarse en los cambios (buenos o malos) y olvidar, lo que personalmente creo es, la razón de tales cambios. Esta mañana leí de John C. Maxwell que la "adversidad causa a algunos quebrantarse y a otros el romper estadísticas." Por lo tanto la pregunta sería, ¿que diferencía los primeros hombres del segundo grupo?

La nación de Israel se encontraba, en 2o de Samuel 12-13, en una encrucijada en liderazgo, adversidad y la edificación del futuro. Estos capítulos narran situaciones de corrupción en el gobierno, temor y confución espiritual a nivel nación. ¿Cómo es que entonces para cuando Salomón toma el gobierno de Israel, la nación se encuentra en la cúspide de la historia universal? He aquí algunos principios:

1. David, el padre de Salomón, aunque lejos de ser perfecto y reflejar en su totalidad un corazón conforme al corazón de Dios; fué un lider debajo de autoridad en lugar de simplemente reguir con autoridad. El profeta Natán amonesta a David en momentos en que las creencias o doctrinas de David no eran expresadas en sus acciones. La restauración de David ante Dios es tan importante como lo que produce tal restauración. Afirmando que todos, sin excepción, ejercemos liderazgo en la vida; ¿eres un lider debajo de autoridad ó un lider con autoridad?

2. David entiende que si lo que le llevo a su miseria fué, en parte, el dejar que sus emociones gobernaran su vida; el decide restaurar su relación con Dios, familia y su vida no através de sus emociones sino incluyendo sus emociones. No podemos seguir usando las mismas herramientas que nos llevaron a nuestra condición actual de necesidad y esperar resultados diferentes. David experimenta-ARREPENTIMIENTO- lo cual es: un cambio de mentalidad y un cambio de actitud.

3. David aprende que Dios-a sus hijos solo los disciplina en lugar de castigarlos. Aunque en medio del dolor no entedemos la diferencia enter ambos conceptos, David dá evidencia de su arrpentimiento al verle confrontar la adversidad y disfuncionalidad familiar cuando se encontraban en su máxima expresión: Desde un bebé que muere en sus brazos-producto de su adulterio- el ver a su própio hijo violar a su hermana y finalmente ver a otro hijo asesinar a su propio hermano.

David aprendió simplemente a hacer lo correcto en la vida, 2o de Samuel 13:39 dice que "el rey David deseaba ver a Absalón; pues ya estaba consolado acerca de Amnón, que habia muerto." Mi oración esta mañana es que como seguidores de Cristo y al confiar en El, veamos nuestro caos presente como una oportunidad de imitar la vida del Rey de Israel al aprender a hacer lo correcto en la vida.

Is love really worth dying for?

2011-04-04T13:10:00.000-05:00

Many believe that pain is the absence of love, comfort and happiness. To see a loved one depart to an eternity with Christ, to let go of your High School class after graduation, to experience the empty-nest syndrome after seeing your kids going out to college or getting marry are some of the many examples to affirm that pain isn't necessary a negative thing in life.

I'm more than convinced that in this life you grow not only by addition (positive experiences in life), but also by subtraction (not so positive experiences in life). As a generation, we don't even know where to begin the conversation when it comes to pain and suffering. Our world is radically experiencing some of the most challenging realities in the history of human kind. Yet, would it be possible that God is allowing some of the most painful realities from personal to global encounters to recapture the humanity that got lost in the journey of life?

I'm far away to proclaim that I know what pain and suffering is in life. Thus, God has awaken, through His Spirit, an undeniable reality and ability to cry and weep with those who cry and weep around me. People I grew up with in my early years have been recently affected by the reality of organize crime in Mexico. Families that I learned to love and embrace are now incomplete due to unnecessary suffering, pain and agony. I don't know the answer to our current suffering. I get the impression that most of it is self-inflicted: humans abusing humans.

1 Samuel 19-20 reminds us the two ways suffering and pain can be faced even today: (1) by focusing on who and what creates suffering, pain, desperation, etc. Thus simply digs us deeper into the reality of our misery and what it looks irreversible or (2) we can also be proactive and understand that maybe, from the moment we decided to love, pain and suffering unavoidably join the experience of giving one-self in love to others through relationships.

It seems that David had no control of Saul's hatred and determination to kill the former shepherd boy. In the midst of his desperate situation, David decides to focus and rely on the love and protection of Jonathan. The deeper the hatred from Jonathan's father, Soul, the deeper David trusts and loves Jonathan - even beyond what is expected in a relationship. Could it be possible that our current pain and suffering has moved beyond the physical and emotional part of our lives that has literally taken and stolen our ability to love and trust God and others?

May the God who loved us so much to the point of death, and death on a cross revive and restore our humanity so we can learn to love like David and Jonathan...even if our lives are at risk.

La Biblia vs. Páginas de la Sección Amarilla

2011-03-28T13:11:00.001-05:00

Cuando vemos la Biblia como las páginas de la sección amarilla del directorio telefónico, donde simplemente vamos a "buscar" ayuda a nuestros problemas; empezamos a caer en el juego de solamente reaccionar a los sucesos de la vida. Desde el principio de la creación, la imagen de Dios fué implantada en la escencia del ser humano, la cual nos dá la habilidad de crear, soñar, emprender y desatar el potencial que yá habita en nosotros. Esto es lo que nos hace diferentes del resto de la creación, nos separa de la vida monótona y predecible que todo ser humano lucha por evitar.

La vida de Ana, en 1o de Samuel, nos dá una pauta a seguir y nos ayuda a ver a Dios y su Palabra como lo que son, una historia de amor en la que el ser humano es invitado a participar y a permitir que su Espíritu Santo, através del ejemplo e influencia de Su Hijo Cristo, usen cada circunstancia para gloria de Aquel que se deleita en mostrar su voluntad deacuerdo a la medida en que anhelamos su Persona.

1. Independintemente de nuestra circumstancia actual, solo Dios tiene la habilidad de transformar nuestra tragedia en algo hermoso. No es tanto que Dios apruebe u origine nuestras calamidades, sino que Dios no está limitado a los sucesos de nuestra vida (buenos o malos). Obviamente, es mucho más fácil asimilar y experimentar este principio si lo aprendemos y practicamos antes que sea necesario. Ejercitar la fe es crucial en este punto, de tal manera, que al ver a Ana reaccionar en su desesperación - no es otra cosa más que lo que de antemano yá ella hacía como estilo de vida...pactar con Dios.

2. Aún cuando la situación "imposible" de Ana cambió, tal parece que el preámbulo de su embarazo fué el producto de una transformación interna en ella antes de que Dios hiciera el milagro. Es por eso que incistimos en afirmar que la oración no es para cambiar el parecer de Dios por lo que se intercede, sino para cambiar la escencia del que ora a Dios.

3. No creo que tenga que hacerle mucha propaganda a Samuel, pues se convierte en uno de los pilares de la formación del pueblo de Israel y la historia del Antiguo Testamento. Su legado vá mucho más hayá de lo que el pudo haber imaginado. El impacto de este profeta, sacerdote y juez refleja más la influencia de su madre y su hogar, que el de su propio esfuerzo. Cuando vemos la Biblia como esa historia donde somos invitados, descubrimos que Dios se manifiesta con más fluidés al vivir en comunidad que con una actitud y mentalidad individualista. La pregunta es, ¿Quiénes son tus mentores, que libros estás leyendo a quien escuchas ó estudias?

4. La sumisión de Samuel a un líder religioso (Elí) que había fallado en el gobierno de su hogar no es casualidad. El punto es que nuestra escencia y carácter simpre saldrán a flote cuando son probados y retados en circunstancias difíciles. Samuel pudo haber hecho muchas excusas legítimas por que no someterse al liderazgo de Elí, más sin embargo, encontramos un patrón constante de obediencia, fidelidad y entrega. No solo a Dios, sino a aquel a quien Dios había establecido como líder. La Biblia nos comisiona como líderes en la medida en que crecemos como seguidores.

Al inicar esta semana de múltiples ocupaciones quiero recordarte que la historia de tu vida es tan importante y crucial en nuestros tiempos como lo fué la de Samuel, Elí y Ana. Casualidad, suerte ó destino son palabras típicas del vocabulario de aquellos que creen y viven sin responsabilisarse de sus hecho y acciones. Es en la medida en que entretejamos y sometamos nuestras vidas con el Dios que de día y de noche se deleita en ser parte de el peregrinaje de nuestro caminar, que descubriremos la dirección de su escribir en las tablas de nuestro corazón através de su Espíritu Santo.

Vidal

Sunday Experience & rest of the week / Experiencia de Domingo & resto de la semana

2011-03-21T10:52:00.001-05:00

1. Every time I have an opportunity to take time off from daily duties and actually get away from office, home and weekly activities-I always return, not only refresh, but eager to communicate God's message. Sunday was one of those days as we continue our "Passion Series" on the 7 words of Jesus from the cross. I've spent time this morning praying for our spiritual community as I asked them yesterday to seriously open up their hearts to the message by learning the principle of LOVE & SUFFERING.

2. I've been doing vocational ministry for more than 20 years, serving in many churches with many people in a variety of areas; but seeing my first-born taking an active role in leading, serving and participating in the body of Christ goes beyond anything I've seen or experienced before. God is so faithful and our investment through parenting and relationships is actually paying off. The best is yet to come!

3. Traveling to Corpus over Spring Break wasn't only refreshing and fun but it also reaffirming as we travel through places and locations where 6 years ago, The Journey became a dream and later a huge step of faith. Have I mentioned how faithful God really is? Seriously, if you aren't living and trying goals that require a God intervention, I'm not sure you are dreaming with God.

4. Here's last Sunday's Video "Journey vs. Destination" Part 2 of Easter Series "The Passion"

5. I can feel the pressure of such a busy and exciting week. My personal and daily schedule is challenging every week, yet I enjoy every opportunity God opens up to serve Him and others.

Monday:
Areli is leading a ladies gathering tonight @ 7 pm at our home. Always fun to see a bunch of ladies together doing life-on-life Bible digging.

Tuesday:
I teach 3 ministry courses for Wayland Baptist University on Tuesday, 1 in Weslaco @1:30 pm and 2 in Brownsville (6pm & 7:30pm)

Wednesday:
I will teach on Colossians on Wednesday (Spanish) at our church, as we continue our "Enough" series.

Thursday:
I'm excited to host a men's gathering at our home on Thursday. Food is going to be good. We're launching a new Bible Study material "The Case for Christ"

Friday:
Date-Night w/my Bride :-)

Saturday:
Teach 2 Ministry Courses, for Church leaders and Pastors, in San Juan (10 am & 11:30 am)
Confraternidad (Youth Community Gathering) in Brownsville invited me to speak at their Saturday event @ 4pm-always love to speak to Millennials.

Hope your week goes well!

Sunday Thoughts / Pensamientos del Domingo

2011-03-07T15:22:00.001-06:00

Reflecting on an amazing Sunday:

1. I cannot, literally, get over Sunday worship experience. It was intense, violent and radical. God is doing something dangerous in our midst. We are finally getting in the game with God. Our faith community is awakening to a new era. Church has become a different experience. Lives are being transformed. Jesus is ALIVE.

2. Very few things excite me more than the Easter season. Although we are still 2 months away from it, our brand new 7 week series - "The Passion" - began yesterday with our first conversation "Counterfeit" People are responding to the gospel of salvation as the message of Faith-Hope and Love is presented over the next 2 months. Each week I will be introducing a "word" or "sentence" of Jesus' last 7 words on the cross. Love to see you guys join!

3. Have I mentioned how amazing is our worship week-in and week-out? Lord, have mercy-it is off the hook!!! God has blessed our community with an amazing group of worshippers who give out their lives before the presence of God. Seriously, if you haven't experienced worship with us, you really need to make it happen this Sunday!

4. I'm on my 3rd week of "The Pentateuch" for Wayland Baptist University class. I'm in love with teaching that I can't resist any invitations to teach from Seminaries and Universities. I'm so privileged to speak in 3 different cities and 3 different sites to 87 Pastors, church leaders and business leaders every week. Please pray for me, as the beautiful story and narratives of the Hebrew people unfold in front of our generation and transforms the hearts of many through community and learning.

5. Tomorrow, Tuesday, will be a very special day. I will be speaking @ STYLN - (South Texas Youth Leaders Network) I will be conversing on the topic of HOW TO AVOID BURN OUT! I'm basically sharing my story...and telling them "Don't do what I did" :-) I will be challenging 60+ youth pastors and leaders from all across the valley on the issue of "Vision" - Please, pray for me...that I would make much of Jesus!

6. Areli and I will be having lunch with Saraí-my 7th grader-on Wednesday @ noon. I'm looking forward to converse and love on my first-born. I love to be Areli's husband and privileged to be Saraí, Becky and Josué dad!

Bendiciones!

Sunday Thoughts / Pensamientos del Domingo

2011-03-01T12:42:00.000-06:00

A few thoughts after a very good Sunday / Algunos pensamientos después de un excelente Domingo:

1. God never stops to amaze me, what a privilige it really is to simply be a part of what He is doing in our generation. I love His church. What an opportunity to join Him in His mission. I'm more than convience that the best is yet to come.

Dios nunca deja de maravillarme, que privilegio es el simplemente ser parte de nuestra generación. Amo su Iglesia. Que oportunidad tan grande de poder unirme a Su Misión. Estoy completamente convencido que lo mejor está por venir.
2. Saraí, my first-born-child, played the keyboard tonight during our church-wide service @ worship time, along with other youth. I don't know if I'm going to be able to sleep tonight, I'm so overwhelmed seeing my baby girl, at age 12, unleashing her passion and commitment to her Lord and Savior. I'm a very blessed father, that's all I have to say about that!

Saraí, mi hija mayor, tocó el teclado esta noche durante nuestra reunión de adoración en el tiempo de la alabanza, junto a su grupo de alabanza juvenil. No se si pueda dormir esta noche, estoy completamente emocionado al ver a mi niña, a la edad de 12 años, despertar y lanzar su potencial y compromiso a su Señor y Salvador. Soy un padre muy bendecido, es todo lo que puedo decir al respecto!

3. When God leads your church, anticipation, excitment and miracles constantly take place. Speaking on Jesus' Second Coming is never easy, yet our community needs to affirm the whole counsel of God when it comes to Jesus' Return. I went to bed Saturday night until 3am, got up at 6am Sunday morning, not being able to contain the message God gave me throughout this past week on the End of Times. Here is the link to my Sunday Conversation Video, "Mind Changers"

Cuando Dios conduce tu iglesia, anticipación, unidad y milagros constantemente toman lugar. El habar de la Segunda Venida de Cristo nunca es fácil, pero nuestra comunidad necesita afirmar el consejo completo de Dios con respecto al tema. Me acoste hasta las 3 am el Sábado por la noche, y me desperté a las 6 am el Domingo muy temprano al no poder contener el mensaje dentro de mi que Dios había puesto en mi corazón esta semana en el Final de los Tiempos. Aquí está la conección al Video de la Conversación en Inglés, "Cambiadores de Planes"

4. I'm extremely blessed to serve @ church along-side a group of people who not only love Christ, but are also gifted for the task at hand. Today's morning worship experience was really good. As a communicator, it is a lot easier to speak after a group of gifted worshippers leads our congregation week-in and week-out. Our church leaders grow everyday, the future looks exciting. My prayer and heart's desire is for my three children to return home and visit Areli and I at our church when they go off to college.

Dios me ha bendecido grandemente al permitirme servir en una Iglesia donde sus líderes no solo aman a Cristo, sino que también están capacitados para la taréa. La experiencia de adoración de esta mañana fué bastante buena. Como comunicador, es mucho más fácil el presentar el mensaje de salvación después de que un grupo de adoraradores talentosos nos diriguen cada Domingo y cada semana. Nuestros líderes crecen cada día, el futuro se percibe emocionante. Mi oración y el deseo de mi corazón es que mi tres hijos cuando salgan de nuestro hogar no solo regresen a visitarnos a Areli y a mí, sino también a nuestra iglesia.
5. Got to eat lunch with a special family today. Fellowship was great, amaze to see what God is doing in their lives. I still remember when we first met them, without hope, love and faith. Jesus is still in the business of miracles, YES! He is!!!

6. I'm beginning a brand new series on Sunday, March 6 that will last about 7-8 weeks on the 7 Final Words of Jesus on the Cross. Nothing like exhalting the One who gave His life so we can move from death to life. I can feel it, it's going to be a life-changing experience for many!

7. Pray for me, I get to speak to 65 people (pastors & church leaders) on a weekly basis through Ministry College Courses that I teach in 3 different cities & locations: San Juan, Weslaco & Brownsville. I feel the responsability and burden to communicate eternal & very practical principles to many people who literally are serving in 11 churches valley-wide. This week is going to be special, I sense it!

Time Change

2010-11-05T14:02:00.000-05:00

iMarriage Series

2010-11-02T18:55:00.000-05:00

Reunión de Matrimonios

2010-11-02T14:16:00.000-05:00

Te invitamos a que te unas al peregrinaje del descubrimiento de un matrimonio, que independientemente cual sea su realidad ó condición, puede experimentar un nuevo amanecer através de la renovación y el roconocimiento de mitos e ideas preconcevidas.

Domingos @ 10:30 am @ The Journey
Incluye almuerzo
Cuidado de Niños
Un bosquejo con preguntas para compartir

Discipleship School

2010-11-02T14:05:00.002-05:00

New Gathering @ Pharr

2010-11-02T13:57:00.000-05:00

Talent Avenue - Journey Youth Gathering

2010-11-02T13:50:00.000-05:00

Join the launching of Talent Avenue - New Youth Gathering on Friday, November 12 from 7pm - 9pm @ The Journey

* Live Worship Bands
* Transformational Message
* Food
* Games
* Fellowship

Main

2010-10-04T14:45:00.000-05:00

Mitos de Dinero

2010-09-30T14:06:00.002-05:00

If uncertainty means job security for leaders in any organization, our current insecure economy must be one of the most exciting times for those who are call to lead today. Throughout this new series, "Money Myths," Vidal will guide us to rediscover a Biblical-world-view in the area of finances, by exposing some of the most typical "Money Myths" in our world today. Join us Sunday @ 11:30 am in Mission & Wednesday @ 6:30 pm in Pharr

Youth

2010-09-24T14:20:00.009-05:00

Rap Concert

2010-09-24T14:20:00.008-05:00

Saturday Concert

2010-09-24T14:20:00.007-05:00

2010-09-24T14:10:00.000-05:00

Join The Journey on Sunday for ONE BIG Celebration @ 10 am.

Water Baptism & Lord Supper

Great Corporate Worship

and a Message of Hope!

One Service

2010-09-17T14:38:00.000-05:00

Join The Journey this Sunday @ 11 am during our One Single Gathering as we launch the Week of our See You at The Pole: The Global Day of Student Prayer.

Preaching for a Change

2010-09-04T10:21:00.000-05:00

This is my personal and edited description/experience on the application of the 5 questions given by Andy Stanley in his Book: Preaching for a Change; after a couple of years of sermon preparation and presentation base on a "Relational Outline" instead of an "Informational Outline" (people do not talk with Roman Numerals in their minds on a daily basis)

1. What do they need to know?
* Audience must be engaged before speaker takes off covering his material.
* Your job is to help them want to listen to you. They are already at Church, might as well, make it enjoyable for them.
* Do not assume that just because is the Bible, every one automatically cares on whatever topic is presented
* What is the ONE idea - principle - thought you want them to take home with them after you are done speaking?

2. Why do they need to know it?
* Ask if the audience has ever being in the situation you just engaged them with?
* Help them to see the relevancy of whatever message you are about to convey to them, otherwise, they will begin their new week thinking: "God, the church and you have no clue what's going on in their lives."

3. What do they need to do?
* Now, and only Now...present the message God has given you without an apology and with the boldness that comes from humility and submission to the Holy Spirit.
* Present what The Scriptures have to say, command, instruct and correct on the theme at hand.
* Make sure to tell the audience what the Bible says, not what you think about what the Bible says.
* Make sure neither the author nor the original recipients are shocked or surprised on what you are saying this weekend about their writings.

4. Why do they need to do it?
* Help them to dream about life under the direction and submission of The Word of God.
* Help them to see the big picture and how life would be if we all live under the instruction and transformation of the Bible
* Take them to the promise land with you.

5. How can I make it memorable?
* Make sure they have something they can go back during the week and remember the ONE single point - idea - thought you gave them
* This is as important as question #1
* Help them to tangibly respond to the invitation of whatever you want them to do
* Audience must say: "as soon as I get home, after listening today, I will ___________."

PREACH IT LIKE THIS IS THE LAST "CHANCE" YOUR 17 YEAR OLD GIVES TO CHURCH & GOD

2010-09-03T10:43:00.002-05:00

2010-08-27T11:24:00.002-05:00

2010-08-13T16:00:00.001-05:00

2010-08-13T15:43:00.001-05:00

Jamboree Kids Celebration

2010-07-30T15:33:00.001-05:00

New Conversation Series: Disciple - The Power of the Holy Spirit

2010-07-17T14:28:00.000-05:00

If the first church transformed Israel, revolutionized the Roman Empire and laid the foundation for Western European countries to be the most prosperous in the world.

How do we explain that the most "Christianized" countries and continents in our day are some of the poorest and dysfunctional in world history?

Come and found out through our new conversation series: Disciple! Begins Sunday, July 17 @ The Journey.

Jamboree: A noisy celebration

2010-07-17T13:56:00.001-05:00

The Journey's Music & Art Kids Summer Camp

K - 6th Grade / Completed

Monday, July 26 thru Friday, July 30

6 pm - 9 pm

Piano - Guitar - Voice - Percussion & Art
Student dinner included @ 5:30 pm

Register online

956-581-6834

Alex & Rodolfo

2010-06-30T13:37:00.004-05:00

Although I'm about 150 miles and 12 hours away from Hurricane Alex, its fury and power are already felt in the darkness of our mid-day and heavy rain in our backyard. As a family, we pray for those who will face Alex directly in the next few hours. God's grace and mercy over families, cities and entire communities. I love people, I despise seeing suffering among God's creation. But this time, Alex's effects are closer to my heart since it will land a couple of hundred miles north of my home-town. This is the place where I was born and raised up to age 17. My heart and deepest of desires for protection, love, care and provision from our Heavenly Father today in my beautiful state of Tamaulitpas.

It has been only two days since the inconceivable assassination of State Government Candidate-Rodolfo Torre Cantú, thus one of the most horrific organize crime experiences the state of Tamaulipas has ever encountered. After watching our Mexican government gradually fall into pieces, and our communities-like never before-seek the leadership that will actually fulfill Tamaulipas original purpose of existence and create the future everyone knows our State already has within; I can't help but think about the paradoxical and ironic differences/similarities of suffering between Alex and Rodolfo.

Alex simply reminds me that Jesus never promised for His creation and children to be immune from suffering. Jesus only promised to be with us every single moment...until the end of the age. He assured His people and us that if we remain in Him, we will never face suffering alone. He will carry us through the storm, even if it turns to be a category 5. Alex is one of those experiences in life where we simply trust - like we are always commanded to do - on the God whose sovereignty knows best for us; maybe not necessarily creating it for us but maybe simply allowing it in us. Unfortunately, only 5%-10% of our suffering comes from this scenario and context, where God's permissiveness comes into play.

In reality 90% of our suffering today in Tamaulipas comes from what I call: "Self-Inflicted Pain." Its source: Greed, Sin, Corruption, Darkness, Evil, Lust, Envy and Godlessness among us. Rodolfo's murder exemplifies this 90% of unnecessary suffering today. Suffering that humanity will never, since we are created in the image of God, get use to. Morality tells us "this is wrong - it must stop NOW." Psalm 108:12-13 says "Give us aid against the enemy, for the help of man is worthless. With God we will gain the victory, and he will trample down our enemies." Albert Einstein said: "Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again expecting different results." How can we expect for our current government, who either allows or creates this kind of inhuman experiences, to fix or terminate our present condition? The problem is not our government but the lack of God's presence on it. Mexico has a bunch of leaders with authority but no leaders under authority. God help us!!!

Could it be possible that maybe, just maybe, we have been asking the wrong question as we eagerly strive to find the ONE answer that will finally deliver us from our current condition? When we ignore the distinction between Alex's suffering (10 % that God allows or creates) and Rodolfo's suffering (90% self-inflicted pain), our tendency will be to ask ourselves: "Why is this happening to our country." I honestly feel that is the wrong question!! If Psalm 106:6 is true "We have sinned, even as our fathers did; we have done wrong and acted wickedly," then the right question maybe: "Why did it take so long for God to call our attention back to Him?"

Corporate (Nation) repentance is the first step towards honoring the lives of those who have died unnecessarily (90% suffering) and move towards the One answer Mexico needs. Organize crime will not stop when we unplug from evil, sin, greed and corrupt leadership; but when we plug-in to the God of the Bible. If faith (faithfulness to God) is the requirement to connect with God as a Nation, then our present and demoralizing condition is the perfect scenario to prove our seriousness and desperation: not for change in our circumstances, but for God. Faith is easier to be expressed and experienced when there's nothing left, when all hope is gone and even our desire to live and continue vanishes like vapor.

King David gives us the steps to follow as we live life on the unresolved tension of loving and mourning at the same time: Psalm 103:6 "The Lord works righteousness and justice for all the oppressed."

Traducción Simultánea

2010-06-22T22:11:00.000-05:00

Hoy fué el primero de tres días que pasaré, Dios mediante, traduciendo para la organizacion "Region 1." La cual se dedica a capacitar y entrenar los distritos escolares: adimistración, magisterio y padres de familias en el Valle del Rio Grande. Aún cuando literalmente he dividido mi vida en dos naciones; pues llegué por primera vez a EEUU a los 17 años. Hoy, a mis 37 puedo decir que Dios me ha bendecido al ser no solo bi-lingue, sino también bi-cultural. Después de estos últimos 20 años en nación extranjera, sigue siendo un reto muy grande el traducir simultaneamente en conferencias-sin pausa alguna-simplemente escuchando y hablando casi al mismo tiempo. Llega un momento, depués de algunas horas de escuchar al conferencista, que uno empieza a anticipar lo que va a decir. ¿La clave? escuchar!

Es una bendición de lo alto el poder comunicarnos, compartir, intercambiar y sobretodo influenciar a otros a través del idioma. No pude evitarlo y meditar en mi corazón este día: ¿Cual es el idioma de Dios? ¿Como se comunica? ¿Como recibe información y manda información? Su palabra dice en Salmos 51:17 "Los sacrificos de Dios son el espíritu quebrantado; Al corazón contrito y humillado no despreciarás tú, oh Dios."

1. No existe ser humano sobre la faz de la tierra que le guste ser despreciado, hecho menos o devaluado. Pero, ¿que acerca de la posibilidad de ser rechazado por Dios? Tal realidad existe, aún cuando no pensamos en ella, pues constantemente abusamos de Su paciencia, amor y fidelidad. Dios siempre ha resistido al soberbio, orgulloso, auto suficiente y de dura cervíz.

2. No existe instrucción divina-dada por Dios-que El no modele. Si El pide sacrificios de su pueblo, es por que El se ha dado a si mismo. En Filipenses 2:5-11 Dios habla el lenguaje de sacrificios. Nunca encontramos en su palabra que el propósito de ser Cristiano es para comodidad y "prosperidad" en la tierra solamente. Para evitar tragedias y simplemente sentirse bien. Nunca!

3. No importa cual aspecto de la vida del ser humano hablemos: Cuerpo - Alma - Espíritu. Cada parte tiene que ser cedida a nuestro Dios por voluntad propia, impulsado por su gracia. Tener un espíritu ó corazón quebrantado no es otra cosa sino reconocer que somos un espíritu con cuerpo - no un cuerpo con espíritu. Tal espíritu necesita conectar con el Espíritu Santo. La conexión perdida en el huerto del Edén vuelve a restaurarse en tal harmonía que su llenura literalmente nos "embriaga" (nos mueve a hacer cosas que no hacemos sobrios).

4. Romanos 12:3 simplemente presenta la humildad como la norma, no la excepción. Pablo dice que el no ser humilde -tener un concepto más alto de sí que debe tener- es el no pensar con cordura. La pregunta entonces es: ¿Eres una persona cuerda? Normalmente, una persona sin humildad es una persona insegura y con un auto-estima bajo; que irónicamente lo proyectan pensando que son mejores que los demas. Humildad es poder, autoridad, la habilidad de darte en sacrificio...así como El lo hizo por tí.

Jamboree: A noisy celebration

2010-06-18T11:48:00.002-05:00

When: July 5-9
Time: 6-9 pm
Teaching: Piano - Guitar - Percussion - Voice - Art
Place: The Journey
Who: K-6 Grade-Completed
Cost: $25.00

Hero Summer Camp

2010-06-03T18:19:00.000-05:00

What: Hero Summer Camp

When: June 28 - July 02

Who: Pre-K to 6th Grade (completed)

Time: 6 pm - 8:30 pm

Where: The Journey

Registration: 956-581-6834

This Week @ The Summit

2010-06-03T17:59:00.000-05:00

Sunday @ 6 pm
1. The Law of Solid Ground by John C. Maxwell - Video
2. Devotional Life - Antioch Community Church - Waco
3. 8 Habits of Highly Effective Small Group Leaders - Dave Earley

Lunes @ 6:30 pm
1. Ambientes Relevantes - Andy Stanley
2. Padre - Corazón de Dios - Antioch Community Church - Waco
3. 8 Hábitos de Líderes de Grupos Pequeños - Dave Earley

El Cristianismo - Enemigo #1 de Jesús

2010-05-17T12:53:00.002-05:00

2 Crónicas 5:13-14 (Reina-Valera 1960)

13 cuando sonaban, pues, las trompetas, y cantaban todos a una, para alabar y dar gracias a Jehová, y a medida que alzaban la voz con trompetas y címbalos y otros instrumentos de música, y alababan a Jehová, diciendo: Porque él es bueno, porque su misericordia es para siempre; entonces la casa se llenó de una nube, la casa de Jehová.

14 Y no podían los sacerdotes estar allí para ministrar, por causa de la nube; porque la gloria de Jehová había llenado la casa de Dios

Adoración a Dios no es otra cosa sino el reconocer que El es Dios y no nosotros. Mi impresión es, muchas de las veces, que la adoración a Dios es como la fe en Dios a la luz de la Biblia; no es tanto la cantidad de adoración sino el objeto de la adoración. De la misma manera, la fe como un grano de mostaza en un Dios grande mueve montañas - mucha fe en un dios pequeño muchas veces no pasa de una emoción. Si la menta es engrandecer la presencia de Dios en nosotros y en la tierra (soberanía, santificación, llenura del Espíritu, etc) entonces el tener fe, adorar, alabar y obedecer solo son el principio del peregrinaje - no la meta en si.

La casa fué llena con la nube de Su presencia a tal grado que los sacerdotes no podían ministrar. La meta se alcanzó ese día. El proceso para tal meta sigue siendo el mismo que Dios ha usado y sigue usando hoy. La invitación-personal NO individual-que hace Dios al ser humano a unirse a su agenda. La convinación de lo humano y lo divino. Esta experiencia narrada en la vida de Salomón y su pueblo es simplemente una cita divina. Como lider de la Iglesia local y ministro "profesional" en mi cultura, después de haber pasado casi la mitad de mi vida en el aula de clase obteniendo una educación "formal" para el ministerio; puedo atestiguar que la sub-cultura de la Iglesia local hoy en día (no mencionada abiertamente) es enfocarnos en el regalo (ministerio) en lugar del Dador (Dios) del regalo.

Esto es reflejado en la manera en que, como líderes, estructuramos la Iglesia, llevamos acabo el "ministerio," y discipulamos a otros. A raíz de ello, la iglesia local posee una estructura inmovible que en lugar de someterse a la dirección del Espíritu Santo es completamente a la inversa - justificándonos con frase tales como "nunca lo hemos hecho así anteriormente." Preocupándomos más por los que retenemos que por los que alcanzamos (permitiendo que millares de gente entren la eternidad sin esperanza). Seguimos perpetuando la división anti-Biblica del clero y la persona promedio. Discipulamos a otros-sin querer queriendo-a ver los templos como lugares "sagrados," le mostramos al mundo que sin $$$ no existe la Iglesia y al perder al pastor no funcionamos y la identidad de la Iglesia se desvanece.

Todo esto ha llevado la idea original de Jesús, de crear un "movimiento" basado en una relación viva-que usa como modelo la manera en que El se relacionó con su Padre celestial cuando vivió en la tierra - a una religión convenenciera, pasiva, apática, sin vida, circunstancial, no transformadora, sin riesgos, leyendo su palabra como si fuera la sección amarilla del directorio telefónico donde podemos encontrar respuestas a la vida en lugar de experimentar la invitación de Dios a unirnos a la historia de amor que día a día escribe en el corazón de la humindad.

Si el Cristianismo en el Siglo XXI vá a dejar de ser una religión más (opción más) para el ser humano, y convertirse-una vez mas-en el movimiento catalítico caracterizado por la Fe-Esperanza y Amor; la Iglesia de Cristo tendrá que ser el vehículo que hace manifiesta la presencia/persona de Dios al enfocar su atención en lo que es importante para Dios. Dejar de condenar lo que Dios nunca ha condenado y re-descubrir el corazón de Dios al ver el ministerio como la oportunidad de mostrar al mundo que todos somos mendígos - mostrando a otros mendígos - donde está El Pan de Vida.

In the Midst of the Fog

2010-05-16T23:46:00.002-05:00

I love preaching. Even though I'm miles away from becoming the communicator I need to be, an overwhelming satisfaction/eagerness to improve takes over my soul every Sunday night. I'm just privileged to walk the Journey of life with my tribe @ The Journey. Privileged to speak on God's behalf on a daily basis through preaching/teaching, personal conversations, txt, emails and every other opportunity this world provides. Thank you Jesus for an awesome time at The Journey this morning and evening.

I helped leading worship during our first service. I'm surrounded with very talented musicians and gifted worshipers. They make me sound a lot better than what I really am. Worship at The Journey is one of the best in church world and it only gets better. Thank you Jesus for The Journey Band. We sang one of my old-time favorites "Falling at your feet" by Among Thorns!

"God never promised to change circumstance for you, He only promised to be your protector in the midst of the fog - thus change you in the process." 1 Peter 3:13-22 was the Scripture reference for today's talk. I experienced people's hearts grasping and embracing such a powerful promise-even though it goes against culture and even religious minds. My prayer for today's experience was not so people can learn to experience God in the midst of the fog (difficulties) but to become-throughout this week-a prophetic voice among their peers, co-workers, home and environments. The church must be catalysts of God's Kingdom every day.

I'm so eager to experience a new week and the last half of this month. Exciting things are coming our way, fill with challenges and a bright future. Uncertainty excites me every single time. Love drives my heart through relationships and risks nurture my spirit and gets me closer to the Father. I can't wait to our corporal celebration next Sunday.

Friday night will go as a powerful night of celebration, anticipation and God's deliverance @ The Journey. Radical circumstances require radical commitment to God and his people. The Journey is facing unbelievable challenges today. People are in the verge of major cross-roads, eternal decisions are being made and we must seek God's face with all our might. A time of celebration and consecration will take place on Friday from 9 PM - Midnight. God is about to do something never seen before in our midst!!!

I'm praying for Mrs. Petra Ochoa with eagerness and urgency. The celebration of life and endurance, her faithfulness to God and her family inspires my life today. I pray for her children and family members as well as her husband. God is about to do something beyond comprehension. This week is going to be crazy and wild.

My kids put a smile on my face every single end of the school year. They make me a very proud dad but even better, they make me a very proud husband. Areli works so very hard on their education, she makes things happen. I'm blessed to be her husband. I love you sweetheart!

The weekend after Easter

2010-04-11T21:04:00.003-05:00

Some reflections and thoughts after the Weekend after Easter:

1. We're the most "holiday" driven culture in the planet. We are so prompt to celebrate and enjoy every major holiday. It almost feels like if dear-life depends on our chronological calender. Our entire Valley is literally transformed during holidays. Today's focus, in my heart and mind, was to challenged our Journey community to express and manifest the eternal result of last week's celebration (Jesus' perfect sacrifice and victory over death).

2. I'm a pretty passionate guy in life and for life. I strive to see life holistically versus departmentally. Whether is present, past or future, I truly give myself to either stage in life. Saturday was my home-town church anniversary. This is the place where the foundation and pillars of life where built. I celebrated and proudly reflected on what God did in my life. Just the privilege to be born in a generation with many great leaders and servants who made me and shaped my life for eternity. Thank you Jesus for your local church @ Mante!!!

3. I feel I communicated one of the boldest messages in my short Journey as a communicator. I'm so very driven by "authority-submission" I love anything the Scriptures presents as "ironic-counter/culture and even insane" in the eyes of our beloved world. 1 Peter 2:14-17 was such an awesome passage to dig in and extract God's timeless and relevant principles for our culture and age. I love the Bible.

4. Two membership classes in 2 days. New families were born into the Journey community. Far away from knowing what birth-pains are, yet I can tell you it is a privileged to see brand new believers discover the goodness of God through community, ministry, love and passion. We literally are transforming our community - one family at a time! Some people still called me priest today - after class :-)

5. Worship was off the hook today. My Journey band only gets better every Sunday. Danilo Montero song, "Bendito Jesus" was truly instrumental to get me pomp to get on stage and give my all today. Thank you Stephanie and band!!!!

6. Diversity is one of The Journey's synonyms in our community. We're a pretty diverse church. It brings me joy, since we live in such a diverse generation. I love to look across our church every Sunday and see the faces and hearts of people with totally opposite backgrounds. Thank you Jesus for allowing me to be a part of the Journey.

7. I'm so excited about Monday night. We, as a family, are going to see The Vipers play a play-off basket-ball game @ 7 pm....I'm gonna try to get some sleep tonight...no promises!!!!

8. Wednesday is our opening night for The Summit, Journey's Discipleship Training School. The Journey is about to change forever. Life will never be the same. Monday and Tuesday will be extremely intense, as we pray and fast to see God simply do His will as we disciple one another on a life-on-life context.

9. I've promised Josue, with Edgar's skills and leadership, to build a tree house in our backyard. I'm not a builder at all. I'm just glad Edgar is going to make me look good. I love my son very much. At the end of the day, I want to be known as his father.

Discussion questions for March 4, 2010

2010-03-23T15:03:00.002-05:00

1. Your thoughts on Chuck Colson's article "What is really being taught in sex-ed classes."

2. What do you think about the advice given to a man who is trying to help other men in their failing marriages?

3. Your reaction to the email from the step-mom who has "selfish and self-abosorbed" step-daughters:

4. What do you think about Mark's advice to guide a family member who committed adultery and is still having trouble in the marriage?

5. Your thoughts on the comment: "if you walk into hell, you can't complain it's hot!"

Still thinking about the weekend

2010-03-22T23:24:00.002-05:00

Weekend thoughts and reflections:

1. God used The Journey, this weekend, to remind me what He loves the most. It truly is all about people. Sometimes I wish I could work things around without dealing with people, yet if every time I see God's manifestation, unavoidably people are at the core of God's agenda. I love people.

2. Ron Stevens brought to The Journey a much needed -spiritual uplift- with a message and personal testimony that made everyone, on Sunday, realize "God's love is reachable."

3. Ron's story of 5 federal sentences in 3 different states has literally brought a lot of hope to my heart, as God has brought to our Spiritual community a number of people with law enforcement issues. Prayers are constantly answered as we see children, wives and former inmates crying out to the God of second opportunities. My heart's desire is for Ron's powerful story to become the outcome of all our Journey families who need a divine intervention during court appointments in the near future.

4. During their second visit on Sunday to our Journey gathering, a brand new couple approached me and said: "Even though we just met you, why is it that every Sunday you've spoken on topics my husband and I have discussed throughout the week?" "How do you know what we talked about?" Truly humbled me to think that God's message is being perceived RELEVANT @ The Journey. God is always relevant, but His message is not always perceived relevant. My prayer and heart's desire is to speak with the boldness of Scripture, accepting everyone without approving what everyone does!

5. Reading through the book of Joshua has reminded me to be a leader under authority instead of a leader with authority.

6. It seems that every Sunday God brings a different family to our home, either after church or Sunday night. Either way, we truly love doing life in community. Besides the fact that hospitality is a gift from God, not to practice it but to be blessed by every single one who steps through our front door; I can tangibly see how Sarai, Rebecca and Josué are learning to live in community. We strive every day to show and model what Scripture commands us to do.

7. After hosting a simple coffee and Pan de Dulce Friday night with a guest family from Montemorelos, Nuevo Leon (Mex) for 2 1/2 hrs at home. I was reminded of my roots and context of life and ministry when I was growing up. The father of the family (wife and three beautiful kids) kept of talking about the depth of his commitment to his local church that I assumed from the beginning of the conversation that he was the pastor. To my surprised, he is "only" the Church Van driver for the church. Within me, there was a cry of desperation and one of the deepest prayers lifted up before God-in silence: "God, forgive me when I see men and women with this level of commitment to you (through the local church) and I get surprised." This should be the norm!

8. The Journey is gathering at different occasions throughout this week and next to simply pray before God for our Easter Celebration. God is about to do things never seen before in our midst.

9. The Journey is facing major physical (illness) issues among families and love-ones. This weekend God reminded me to expect great and mighty things from Him, as we continue to pray, pray and pray!

10. I posted on twitter last week, that without Areli - The Journey would not exist. As time goes by, new challenges are born - I could not even imagine what would I do "in life" without Areli. I'm more than grateful for the privilege to protect her, serve her and especially to love her. I love to love my wife!!!

11. Michoacan trip was a major win for The Journey. We will share this weekend what God did throughout this week. Stay tune.

12. We're celebrating Easter at Casa Hogar Benito Juarez @ Reynosa. Looking forward to share the power of the Resurrection with kids, parent, staff and the community!

13. Six cities - Six gatherings!

The Unresolved Tension of Sundays in my life!!!

2010-03-07T21:24:00.005-06:00

1. Woke up about an hour ago from a "forced" 5 1/2 hour nap. For the first time, after 20 years of preaching-teaching, I barely finished my second sermon today. I felt pretty sick, still don't know what happened. I feel much better now, after nap time and medication. Thus God blew me away (as usual) after seeing visitor's cards and their responses!!

2. Journey's prayer team gathers every Sunday morning @ 9:30 am to pray over me - gatherings - corporate worship and everything that involves our worship services. Today was a very special time as we lifted up very special needs among our community. I feel renewed every single time they pray over me.

3. Transitions - Junior High gathering (during our Spanish service) excites me beyond comprehension. The growth on our Junior High ministry is exploding - Sundays and Wednesdays.

4. Even with 20 years of Music ministry in my system, The Journey Band continues to amaze me every Sunday and today was no exception. They've become the frame of the beautiful picture Journey is gradually becoming. I'm more than privileged and excited to have my Journey Band on stage every Sunday morning! I love those guys.

5. I, unapologetically, feel that I preached one of my boldest sermons in 20 years. I was shocked of the things God placed in my heart as I spoke twice today. I'm so eager to watch/critique video sermon, as I do every week. I'm also eager to get my team to watch and share insights on it. Peter made me do it (1 Peter 2:4-10).

6. Easter promotion began today. People made a couple of comments to me about it and what we feel God is planning and preparing us to encounter on April 4th. I don't fully know what God is about to do...but I will warn you...it's gonna be HUGE!!!

7. I have to secretly confess the joy I feel and experience when I see my kids NOT becoming the stereotypical "CPK" Church Planter Kids. How do I measure that? I see and tangibly contemplate their passion for Jesus out of their deepest of desires. I do not see duty to follow their Master, I see delight. Not that CPK don't love Jesus. I've been in the "business" long enough to know better. My kids love Jesus, even if Areli and I change vocation!!

8. I'm expecting a great week - probably with more challenges that I honestly desire, still I wouldn't do anything else with my life than what God has invited me to join today! I love to live.

Sunday-February 28, 2010

2010-03-01T14:28:00.003-06:00

Still digesting the way God constantly surprises me every single Sunday. What an awesome corporate experience The Journey faced yesterday...

1. After 22 years of vocational ministry in several churches, generations and cultures. The Journey is the greatest of places to live in community among the hungriest of generations for meaningful relationships today!

2. It has been so good for me and The Journey to take last 3 Sundays off from preaching/teaching. Ironically, attendance has been building up since week 1 in our series "Church is for Lovers." Maybe I should just give up the stage on Sundays! :-)

3. I'm hungry to preach/teach among my family-The Journey. Sunday, we'll continue digging into 1 Peter in our series "Living Beyond." Looking forward to speak about the challenge to take everything is happening in our world today as traction instead of friction in our relationship with God and His mission...stay tune!

4. What an amazing blessing Professional Counselor - Alejandra Mora was (people are talking - texting about her today) yesterday during both services. Having a lady speak yesterday was great. I'm so thankful for our English service and their patience as we (for the 1st time) translated preaching time from Spanish - English!!! Welcome to the Valley :-)

5. As a leader, your inner circle will make you or break you. The Journey Band seriously rocks the house every single Sunday. God's anointing Spirit just flows out of so much talent and giftednnes surrender to the Giver. People never have enough of the presence of God during our corporate worship. I love my Journey Band!!!

6. Visitors, visitors, visitors...God has blessed us with new faces every single Sunday. This is a constant reminder that He is management and I'm in sales. This is His church and I'm privileged to be a part of it. Thank you Jesus!!

7. Spending lunch and entire afternoon with Keila and Elias Perez at our house yesterday - was refreshing and encouraging to see what God is about to do in their lives and ours. Great friends and exciting future coming our way!!

8. Josue is improving in his reading skills as a 2nd grader. What a privileged it is to be his dad. I love reading with my son.

9. This is going to be one of those weeks....I can feel it. I must buckle up and just ride His wave!!!

Sunday

2010-02-22T15:05:00.005-06:00

Some thoughts after an amazing Sunday:

1. God's presence continues to dominate during our Sunday gatherings. People are constantly seeking God's face during our worship time. Hearts are teacheable and ready to be changed as we gather.

2. Spiritual warefare is real and tangible as The Journey moves forward. Needless to say, this is a great motivation to grow in dependance and trust in the God who has called us.

3. I love leadership, but I love leaders even more. God has blessed The Journey with amazing gifts and talent, the best is yet to come.

4. Speaking at FBC Pharr last night was so encouraging and uplifting, praying over the lives of those who are called to serve and challenging them to choose wisely on the "mark" they, unavoidably, will leave long after they'll be gone.

5. Teaching music lessons has been enjoyable - especially since I haven't taught music in a while. I love teaching...but I love music even more.

6. "Church is for Lovers" series was a great success. Lots of awarness and spiritual conversations ignited through our 3-part series. It will be soon available on DVD. I always love partnering with Abel Ortega and Ron Smith.

7. Easter celebration is coming together....it's going to be a great time to rejoice on the God of the Empty Tomb.

8. Gearing up to go back to 1 Peter Series "Live Beyond." Love doing series together with my blood-brother, Air Force Chaplain, James Armstrong.

9. I'm so ready to spend the afternoon with Saraí, Rebecca & Josué. Areli will be at a Journey ladies gathering. We'll play ball in the backyard.

10. Met great first time visitors yesterday @ The Journey. We only believe in divine appointments. God brings these people, time to walk them through The Journey.

11. I will be teaching piano lessons to Sarai, Becky and Josué today.

12. I will be 38 years old in November. God is constantly pointing me towards "legacy" in life-leadership. I read today, Numbers 27:16-17

2010-02-10T22:43:00.012-06:00

Please, take the time to review and input your thoughts and reactions to the following questions regarding Mark Gungor radio-talk from January 4, 2010. If you need to listen to the show again, please click the following link http://www.markgungorshow.com/wp-content/uploads/20100104.mp3

1. After listening and reading the article Can the Recession Save Marriage? do you agree with such statement?

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703558004574584042851448128.html

2. Your thoughts and reaction to the term and concept of the "Feminized church."

3. Do you agree with Mark's concepts on the issue of masturbation? Why? Why not? Explain

4. How much (details) should a person know about his/her spouse's affair? Explain

An Abnormal Birth

2009-12-03T11:35:00.005-06:00

The Journey has recently been bombarded with new babies. Unavoidably, Christmas always makes a connection with new born kids since Jesus' birth and arrival to this world defines Christmas, even after 2000 years.

Would it be possible that Christmas has become more of a "tradition," "doctrine," and even a "celebration" instead of a tangible-life transforming experience in our world? I don't believe people oppose such transformation (people hunger this transformation, we just don't know how to articulate it most of the time due to hurt, pain, suffering, pride and especially sin), we just settle for what is favorable to our culture-time-generation. Our cultural ADD lenses allow distractions and as a result we gradually or radically keep on forgetting the true meaning of Christmas.

Would it be possible that Jesus arrival is unbreakably connected to his departure from the same world He came to redeemed? The writer Paul, in 1 Corinthians 15:8 calls himself..."an abnormally born apostle." Trying to convince his audience that he is a real "apostle," although born into the "family" way after every other apostle. And particularly recognizing his previous leadership of killing and detouring the Unstoppable Force called "The Church."

What is it that even though Paul was "an abnormal born," still he defends, in the same chapter, with his very own life Jesus resurrection from the death? Maybe the reason lays on the fact that Jesus was not a tradition (Paul really knew about traditions), a mystical myth nor a doctrine. But instead, Jesus became a tangible encounter where Paul saw the resurrected Jesus face to face.

As we begin this beautiful time of celebration, let our personal encounter with the Risen Christ be the goal of everything that takes place within the next 20 days.

Mis Años de Secundaria

2009-11-18T11:49:00.003-06:00

Narrativas Bíblicas como el libro de Hechos me transladan de una manera vívida a las primeras etapas del peregrinaje al seguir a Cristo. Fueron años formativos y fundamentales donde me toco ver a ambos de mis padres sufrir persecución por causa de su fé y convicciones. Obviamente en aquellos años, ni trabajo, ni familia propia tenía; de tal manera que en ambas esferas de influencia el impacto de tal persecución, hasta cierto punto fue secundario.

Hoy, después de más de 25 años de caminar junto al Maestro, puedo digerir y procesar de una manera diferente lo que papá y mamá vivieron en carne propia por muchos años en sus trabajos y en sus familias inmediatas al idenficarse con el Nazareno. No sé lo que es ser un adulto-profesionista-padre de familia-líder espiritual en México - como fué el caso de ellos. Sí, la cultura ha cambiado, los tiempos han cambiado y la vida a tomado un giro completamente diferente. Pués aún cuando he pasado la mitad de mi vida en un país que no es el mío, puedo sentir y respirar las bases de mi relación con Dios en el ejemplo real modelado por aquellos que siempre han sido los héroes de mi existir, mis padres!!!!

Mi oración en un día como este, es simplemente que lo aprendido y vivido en esos años formativos de la vida se conviertan hoy en esa fuerza imparable que produjo la persecución en los líderes del libro de los Hechos. A tal grado, que la agresividad en Santidad, Amor, Obediencia y Compasión inunden mi generación con el poder transformador de Su Espíritu. Es el anhelo de mi corazón que nos desintoxiquemos de la imagen que hemos heredado de la religión al pensar que vivir para Aquel que nos amó primero simboliza comodidad, seguridad y bienestar simplemente.

The Journey

2009-11-16T14:08:00.002-06:00

I'm still in awe from experiencing God in corporate worship last night. From Johnny Diaz, to 10th Avenue North and finally...the moment came during the night to see (again, in a long time) my favorite, MercyMe!!!

I couldn't help it but go back in time to my mid-90's college years at ETBU, and my early years of spiritual leadership at the local church level. Those are the years where my encounter with MercyMe and many other experiences took place. Yep, 15 years ago God was shapping, without me knowing, the future He alone invited me to create. Today, I enjoyed the imperfection of a real and genuine life full of challenges and overwhelming beautiful experiences besides the One we Worshipped last night...more than 4000 people at the Mercedes Life Stock Show Arena. It was off the hook!!!!!

Sitting there besides my kids: Saraí, Becky and Josué and specially my beautiful bride, Areli; and just experiencing God's presence, through worship, in the middle of a time in history where I'm called to live out every single principle He has written in my heart throughout my journey in life. Like never before, I'm faced with a present that seems so uncertain and a future that only God knows how is it gonna end. Yet, that's what makes it so freaking exciting. I can't deny the fact that my heart craves moments like these. I love life!!!!

God has taken me today to the book of Acts and the biography of a hero of our early movement called the Church of Jesus!!! His name is Stephen. His boldness and aggressivenes to narrate the Journey of imperfect warriors who in the midst of chaos and even sin; they all had 2 things in common: Imperfection and the ability to go back to the heart of God. Acts 7 begins by introducing individuals such as: Abraham, Joseph, Jacob, Moses, Joshua and Solomon.

Imperfection is what links me to these men, my prayer to the God who Stephen saw the moment he died, is that I may be known today as the one who returns back to the heart of God.

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2009-01-15T11:30:00.002-06:00

Technology has become one of the most tangible ways to experience the love of God. It was in 1992 on a day like today that the world wide web was born. Obviously, nothing will ever be the same again. Yet, our hunger and desire to connect with one another is undeniably growing and expanding. That's where technology come and reaffirms God's plan and design in humanity.

Have you seen the explosive growth in facebook? It is amazing. It blows my mind how many people enjoy connections among friends, family and even the thrive to know new contacts. Facebook is nothing else than the finger print of God. When re-discover our ability to see life holisticly we will recognize and see God in everything around us. The question now becomes, how can we, as facebook members, utilize every opportunity to maximize and bless what God has already blessed around us? The millions of people connected to one another in facebook are currently and presently blessed by the God of technology. I will invite you to find ways to bless them also by moving from "elevator relationships" (superficial) to deeper, heart to heart, life on life relationships.

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2008-12-24T13:34:00.000-06:00

Conversation

2008-12-16T15:13:00.002-06:00

Early childhood memories bring enless converstaions between us as children and many of my uncles, aunts and many more to mind. I grew up in a big family environment with many of them traveling from far away just to spend Christmas together. But the climax of those unforgettable days were our conversations, our laughs, jokes, arguments (after everyone was drunk) and even our silent moments.

When I think about it, Christmas was about conversations. Without those conversation I don't think Christmas was meaningless or at least less productive and fulfilling. Sadly, my immdiate family has forsaken those conversations and the relationships among them (us) are broken today. I'm more than convinced that Christmas cannot be fully experience in issolation. I know everyone of my family members will celebrate Christmas this coming week. I'm not sure their Christmas is fullfilled nor complete.

Christmas is all about a conversation started by God with His people. God became man with the purpose to be understood who He is and was. Yet, we kept on forsaking His voice.

2008-12-10T17:29:00.003-06:00

No doubt about it. Mexico, the USA and every other part of the world. Christmas is the most important holiday around the globe. Something different is taking place this year. A new beginning, with a sense of direction and purpose overflows our generation because of the new born King.

As I reflect on what this baby King has done and is doing, I am totally amazed of His present Kingdom and future Kingdom. Like never before the future is here. The birth of Jesus of Nazareth unleashes the reality that resides within us. We don't have to wait for the future. Our future is within us. There is no other place, person or event to look for, except the arrival of the Messiah arising within our essence, our core, our very being.

As we launched our new conversation series, "Savior," we ignited a fresh perception of Christmas for our world today. We looked at Jeremiah 33:3 "Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know." Wow! How kool is that? You have to remembered that every other major religion or belief system always has a hidden agenda, requirement or a list of unrealistic rules to fulfill before you can access the power from their god, diet, etc.

That's not the God of the Bible. All you have to do is call and He will answer you. Isn't this "answer" what Christmas is all about? Except, in Christmas time, He didn't give an answer to the people who called on Him. Instead, He became the Answer. Emmanuel, God with us. When God becomes the answer, instead of giving an answer that answer can go in two different ways. For some reason, with my very little experience of life and God, I get the feeling that anytime God shows up, or becomes the answer things get complicated. Have you noticed it?

God is an expert on changing the status quo, the norm, the expected, the accepted. God is a revolutionary God. He is a creative God, thus Christmas is all about the creation of a future that may not reflect what you were looking for at the beginning of your prayer or request.

As a result, God becoming the answer will require Faith from our side. Faith to believe that "great and unsearchable things you do not know," are coming your way. Maybe Christmas is all about God with us, as a result, the unexpected is on its way. http://www.advancedministry.com/sites/index.cfm?i=6841&mid=18

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